Dark Blues

It's February.  I have a photo shoot in two days that I have been preparing for the last couple of months.  I am using some of my collected props for this months inspiration photo.

People may be thinking of pink and red for this month of LOVE but I am feeling the blues and grays of  Winter in San Francisco.  Mixing in some contrasting color and patterns for an eclectic table top.  

I'm excited for this next project… working again with Michael Bennett and a new collaborator and friend Food Stylist, Alexa Hyman.

Table Manners

It is January in the year 2014.  One of my (many) goals for this year is to post a photo every month of objects, colors and ideas that are inspiring me. 

 I don't know where my inspiration will come from.  I find it in magazines or out shopping.  A lot of times conversations with friends can spark an idea.  

This month it came from two vintage tin trays and various shades of pink.  

Happy New Year!

Jewels

When Lori and I first planned her visit up to San Francisco we had decided it would be a good time for us to collaborate on another photo shoot for her jewelry line Lily Girl.  

We originally had discussed doing an urban shoot but this time we planned on a setting in the woods by the creek… an outdoor tea party.  

Lori and I combined a selection of clothes for the wardrobe.  I had been inspired by current magazine spreads so we chose a sort of Bohemian, Urban hippie chic. 

I asked my friend Alexia to model for us because she has beautiful long black hair and exotic features.  By surprise we had our second model, home from college, pretty Emma.  Who had modeled for Lily Girl this past Summer.

Originally, I wanted to take the girls down into the creek but with an assessment with my photographer we decided it was going to be too tight and awkward.   As the morning went on, before our models arrived, the light in the trees became so enchanting we found our locations.

Pulling the tea party idea together was fun.  I used pretty cups from Mikes grandmother and some of her silver tea set.  I also, bought an array of colored macaroons, some new linens I purchased in New York and roses from the backyard to brighten up the party.  The foundation of the set was finished with my green settee, coffee table, and a borrowed rug.

Once Alexia arrived we started the show… and continued with wardrobe, jewelry and location changes.  These are my favorite shots that Lori took.

Emma showed up a little later and Lori took her out front for these great moments.

Then we got the girls together for their party!

These are my behind the scene photos… the photographer at work.  Over the years Lori has really honed her skill at photography.  You can see her work on her website and blog but here she is in action.  One of the many talents of my dear friend.

It never ceases to amaze me how photo shoots get pulled together.  Always a lesson in being present and conquering obstacles and... we turn out great work every time.

This was another fun time with my best friend.  There will be many more to come!  Stay tuned.



Thank you to Alexia and Emma for being good models and Mike for hosting the shoot at his house and for all of his helpful ideas.